3. Where They remember, and Something Serious Happens
Chapter 3 of 13
neelix“What is past is prologue.”
~ William Shakespeare~
Hermione
Walking through Hogsmeade in the early evening used to be one of my most favourite things to do. Tonight it feels cold, but that summer… God, was it really so long ago? Anyway, that summer it was always balmy. It was as if the weather had joined everyone in the celebrations at the end of the war and was reluctant to leave the party. Even here, people were walking around in vest tops, most of them with sunburnt shoulders.
I pull my coat tightly around me and start to walk faster. The lights in the Three Broomsticks are like a beacon in the dark, and I feel an unfamiliar fluttering in my tummy. Lost in thought, I reach the door in surprise and pause to take a breath. My heart is starting to beat a little faster, but I ignore it to push the door open. I’m instantly engulfed by noise and warmth and aromas that assault my senses, forcing hidden memories to the fore.
I don’t want to head to the bar straight away, so I find the nearest empty booth and slip into it. I can feel the heat from the open fire, and I know from experience it will get stifling before long, so I slip off my coat and scarf before casting my gaze around. I can see her now, standing with her hands on her hips as she engages yet another leering customer in banter. I know the game well; she taught me herself. She stops in mid-sentence and turns to look over her shoulder. Our eyes meet, and she smiles slowly. Immediately she breaks off her conversation with the serving of beer and a swift goodbye, tucking the Galleons into her apron pocket as she walks towards me.
‘Well, here’s a surprise,’ she says warmly, sliding into the seat opposite.
‘I fancied some company,’ I say. She takes my hand across the table, and I let her.
‘Told you it wouldn’t be easy, didn’t I?’ Her face is kind, warm and understanding. The weight of the past few months comes crashing around me, and I feel the tears sliding down my face as I nod in agreement.
‘Floo him and let him know you’re staying tonight,’ she suggests. My eyes widen and the words get stuck in my throat, and she laughs. The sound is familiar and welcome and I realise how much I’ve missed it.
‘Don’t be silly, girl. We’ll just talk, if you like,’ she says, but I hear the question in her voice. I think for a moment, then remember that Happy is with Ron and Luna tonight and there is no real reason to rush back. I nod, and our eyes meet again.
I know we won’t be just talking as I walk to the Floo.
***
Severus
The house feels too quiet tonight. It’s a long time since I’ve been here on my own, and I hadn’t realised how accustomed I had become to the sound of females in my living space. They seem to have gradually crawled under my skin, and I want to scratch the place where they’re absent. Not that I mind. God knows I had plenty years of that at Hogwarts to get used to my own company.
I’ll have another Firewhisky. Why not?
Perhaps I should go out too. I don’t blame Hermione for staying in Hogsmeade. I have been bloody miserable company lately. Let’s be honest, I’ve just been bloody miserable. For so long I have been content with the status quo. Home teaching suits me, and I still have plenty of free time to brew and tend the herb garden. I have time to read and occasionally listen to music. I can still hear Hermione’s laugh when she discovered the stack of old vinyl in the attic. She was still laughing later, after we dusted an L.P. off and let the sounds of The Kinks reverberate loudly around the house. We got rat arsed that night, and I think she even convinced me to dance. Unbelievable, the changes she has brought to my life. She is my best friend, and I’m wondering now if I’ve done her a disservice, binding her to me through Happy. It seemed the perfect solution, at the time.
But where do we go from here? I can’t expect her to live a celibate life, and I’m not sure I want that for myself either. I have thought about Harry more and more in the last few months, and I can no longer hide from myself. I regret everything. Hermione was right.
Fuck, I’m turning into a maudlin old bugger. Pub it is.
***
Harry
I grab the clipboard and take a slow walk up the ward. We have five patients in at the moment and three empty beds. Although the ward is small, it’s busy and challenging, and although it’s taken me months to admit it to myself, I love it. Our patients tend to be here as the result of an accident, and they’re almost always under the age of eleven. Poppy Pomfrey tends to cover the bases after that. This makes for a lot of laughter on the ward, and some tears, but there is very little we can’t treat here. Magic can quite literally work miracles.
I approach the fourth bed and hear the familiar sound of Miranda Abbot singing to the young girl tucked up in the bed. She’s recovering from a potions poisoning. God knows what she took, but the purple boils on her face are fading slowly. The lecture I gave to the parents was particularly satisfying. Being the Boy-Who-Lived has its uses, because the parents recognise me instantly but the children don’t.
I’m just about to walk back to the Medi-witch station in the middle of the ward when Marcus Hedley runs into the ward. It looks like we have a new patient.
‘Tell me,’ I say, walking quickly with him to the treatment room at the entrance to the ward.
‘Girl, aged six. She fell off a broom, apparently. Must have been from some height, I’ve counted three fractures to her arm and a broken leg, but she hit her head too.’
I nod in understanding and wonder briefly why the hell a child of that age was allowed to ride on a broom in the first place.
‘Are the parents with her?’ I can’t wait to hear their excuses. My unwritten rule is that parents should protect their children at all costs. Mine did.
‘No. She was having a sleep over with friends. They brought her in.’
‘The child’s name?’ I grab my quill, ready to start yet another new record.
‘Harriet Granger-Snape.’
Fuck.
Story Actions
To follow, favorite, like, and more either log in or create an account.
Leave a Review
Log in to leave a review.
Latest 25 Reviews for Making Happy
80 Reviews | 6.75/10 Average
So good to read this again.
Seriously lovely.
Yay for happy endings! You have done a fantastic job with this, Neelix. Really, it was beautiful from start to finish. I think this ended perfectly where it did, but I would be lying if I said I wouldn't be thrilled to see little glimpses of the future here and there. I like the conversation between mother and daughter on the train. It would be totally unrealistic if Harriet didn't have some reservations about how her peers would accept this unconventional family. It isn't the norm, and kids are cruel. Still, you make the point that different is not equivalent to bad. She just has extra people to love her is all. Regardless of her nerves about what people will think, I have no doubt that she knows deep down how very special she is and how very much she is loved.I don't think she will get too much grief about her parentage. Having three of the most instrumental folks in wizarding history as your family has got to count for something, right?I really, really love Harry's confidence in their relationship. He could feel nervous due to lack of verbal confirmation on Severus' part, and yet he seems to just know that this is right and that it will work between them for always.I hope the writing of this tale lifted your spirits a bit. I know reading it did for me. Thanks so much for sharing such a great story!
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
thank you so much for your positive response to this. I'm really pleased with the way it was recieved, and yes, I did really get a boost from wiritng it!There will be new one-shots intermittently I think, firstly from Severus' POV. I'm still off work but I hope to go back soon . I miss the craic, to be honest!
So glad to see them together at the end. I really liked your story telling from each person's point of view. As someone else said, Snape's point of view on the bonding would be lovely to see.Well done.
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
Thank yu so much for reading. I intend to do a few one-shots to go with this, i think.
This was fantastic. Although not my usual pairing preference, the characterizations were outstanding. I agree with the request for a sequel. Very interesting to see how they balance the alternative family and how the kids handle it. It is always fun to see the true potential of a kid with parents such as Hermione and Severus too! Thanks for writing!
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
Thank you so much - I seem to have convinced a few people about the pairing!
Well now everything is sorted and in its proper space. Nicely done you!
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
Thankyou! I had a lot of fun with this x
Well, my dear, this simply BEGS for a sequel !! Snarry is generally not my thing so much, but this tale was written with such sensitivity and plausability of character that I was ensnared. Fine work !!
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
Wow. Thank you for that! perhaps I will do some one-shots to go along with this. A sequel would need further plot, and not their bonded there's no where to go!
AWWWWWWWWWWW! This is perfect ending. Maybe one day you'll write about Severus' feelings for this evening. I would have loved to see his face when he discovered the box in his plate. And his emotions while Harry paased the ring on his fingers should be interesting to know. Please?
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
I might do a special one-shot just for you from Severus POV :) Thanks for reading xx
Response from snitchette (Reviewer)
*squeeeee* THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!
Awww ... this was nice. One thing that I have really enjoyed about this story is that there is conflict at the proper times, but it is quickly resolved. Not that I don't enjoy long drawn out angst and such, but that is not what this story is ultimately about. I think the cat is out of the bag as far as any secrets between them, so all that is left to do is pursue this relationship. Something that I needed to convince me that this pairing can work is a mature Harry. I'm ok with SS/HG where she is young, but for some reason it is hard for me to stomach a young, inexperienced, immature Harry with Snape. No worries with this version of Harry; he is perfect.Hermione is going to be absolutely delighted by this latest development. Happy probably will be as well. I don't see that there is anywhere to go now, except towards a happy ending -- no pun intended :)
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
Thank you honey - sorry I'm so late in replying, I've been off radar for a little while.Thanks for reading x
Well, from Harry's perspective, Hermione has given him a lot to think about. From my perspective, what the hell is he waiting for? Go to Severus now and tell him how you feel. Geez, men.I love the interaction between Severus and Happy. I can see why he was worried about Hermione taking her away as he clearly loves her dearly.Severus and Hermione have taken an awkward situation and made it even worse in the interest of protecting Harry and Happy. I hope they can make things right for all parties involved.I will be interested to know how Happy came about. I thought in the beginning that Harry and Severus were a couple and wanted a child and Hermione volunteered to help, but then somehow things went belly up and he and she ended up staying together. Then I thought that maybe Severus and Harry were a couple, but because of maybe lots of alcohol and some bad choices, they ended up sleeping together-just this one time- and Happy was the good and bad outcome. Guess I will wait and see.On a personal side note, Harry and Happy are two of the Hippos in the game Hungry, Hungry, Hippos which my son has just recently discovered. I've thought about you each and every one of the ten thousand times we have played over the last week :)
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
Ahh yes, Hungry Hungry Hippos - this is the bane of Severus' life in Hilltop Cottage, the devil's own entertainment! lol!!More comes clear in the next couple of chapters, and as you say, Harry is never backward about coming forward so...
Response from HBAR (Reviewer)
I knew if anyone would understand my pain, it would be you and Severus!
At last! Harry knows the truth. Whew thats a releif. ((bounces)) Severus ought to duck if knows whats good for him. I expect he is going to get a good shouting at by med witch Potter. Hee
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
lol... I think there may be some strong words, you're right. Harry is like a dog with a bone really!
Hooray! You had me genuinely worried about Happy there. I have a very hard time picturing Hermione with Rosemerta, but then Ginny was taken and Lavender was REALLY not her type, so who knows? I guess the wizarding world figured out Artificial Insemination, though chances are they don't do it with a glorified turkey baster. ... well, maybe they do. Why use magic when simple Muggle methods work just as well? It's no use guessing- I'm pleasantly surprised every time.
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
Well. I'm glad I was able to make you feel something. Next chapter wont be long. Thanks for reading.
I can't wait to hear Severus' story about the conception of Happy. Because honestly I thougt it involved a lot of alcohool followed by a pityful performance and a great headache afterwards, maybe regrets too.
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
That would have been a fun scenario to write, actually, but no, not like that. I won't keep you waiting for much longer.
... as I Floo home, I’m feeling more confused than I was before.*pats Harry on the back* "Me too buddy, me too."Where, may I ask, is my explanation of this vow? Hmmm? I'd sic Severus on you, but I'll be damned if he isn't soft and squishy around the edges in this tale. And if that sounds like a negative comment, it isn't. I love your Severus. He retains his hard exterior, biting words, inherent insecurities ... all of the things that make him who he is. But when he is with Hermione, or Happy, or now Harry, he softens a little and that makes a hard-to-love man loveable.You may very well be able to take credit after so many before you have failed, to turn me into a Snarry fan. I'll hold out until the end to decide, though. No pressure, really.
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
Thank you for reading, even if Snarry isn't your thing. I warn you now there will be sex coming up. I'll do my best to make it believable so that you don't feel the need to avert your eyes!Severus is a bit softer in this story. He's a different man, I think, and having Happy changed him beyond his own imagination. I'm sure that he's looked back on his own childhood and decided to be a different sort of parent.I have to be honest, I have struggled with the last couple of chapters. Hopefully the next one will be easier.
Response from HBAR (Reviewer)
I warn you now there will be sex coming up. I'll do my best to make it believable so that you don't feel the need to avert your eyes!You've found my issue with these two. There can be a ton of sex, or none at all ... I just always have a hard time with a relationship between these two feeling believable. I'm liking them so far, even though their interactions have been repressed. Fear not, I have absolute faith in you to make this work.
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
No pressure then. That's good!lol... I'm on chapter 10, sex will be in 11 I'm thinking. Wish us luck (thats me, Severus and of course, Harry... bwahahahaha!!!!)
AAaarrgh! I thought we might find out about the Vow in this chapter!! Well, I am glad that Happy is alright, anyway. Both Hermione and Severus will be able to face anything that happens now. Severus seems to be a great father so why he should have worried about Hermione taking her away, I don't know. Still insecure that everyone he loves will die/run away I suppose and whatever he Vow is, I don't think it has helped him to grow emotionally. Though I think having a daughter has, so perhaps he's ready to jump into the deep end with Harry. *Crosses fingers!*
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
I think you're right about Severus and his insecurities. He has been abandoned by everyone he's ever cared about.The Vow isn't that exciting, really! lol... I think everyone will be majorly disappointed.
I'm so relieved Happy's well. I don't believe Severus would have ever recovered from her death, even with Harry's love to support him.
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
I think you're right,
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
. Onwards...
Thanks for not killing Happy off. Okay I really didnt think you would, but I was nervous for a bit. The vow is lifted, the child is recovering seems to me its time for the adults to have a discussion. Drum roll please for the next chapter!
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
lol... Next chapter is on it's way. Thanks for reading x
Well it is about time. I've been wondering about all of this vow business; the what and the why of it all. I certainly hope that this means the next chapter gives more insight into it all. Knowing you and your wily ways, the next chapter will probably be from Happy's POV, and will take place while she is under for surgery so will just be a blank page, LOL. Ok. you're not that bad. Still, don't make us wait too long for more, pretty please.
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
Dont panic - Chapter 8 is with my beta ARo so you won't have to wait long - I really wish I had done a blank Happy POV, lol!!! I'm not that clever!I hope the reveal makes sense to everyone... *doubting self*
Oh, my gods..... what..... what...... ????!!!!
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
you need to refer back to Chapter 1! lol...
I can't believe I just tore right through the first chapters. I need another fix immediately! * taps foot* Lol, actually this is REALLY excellent. I'm quite enjoying it. Dare I surmise that...well no I won't. I'll let myself be surprised.
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
Thank you so much. next chapter is WIP but shouldn't be long x
Oh WOW he removed the vow ! I want the next chapter immediately!!! You are so evil to withhold it! This was just heartbreaking watching both Hermione and SEverus suffer so. Poor Happy.
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
It's carnage, I agree. It has to be. You have to break a few eggs... :)
What??? Oh my. *aughhhh...I have fallen.* Off the cliff I go.*giggle* Let's just say I am enjoying this immensely, and am looking forward to your next thrilling post.Thank you again for sharing~
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
I hope this means you enjoyed the chapter. lol! next update wont be as long, i promise.
YOU are a very bad author!!! What's this vow (un unbreakable one?) that he made. To what purpose? YOu better update quickly *stare menacingly at you*
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
hehe... *cackles evilly* *makes you wait*
What a delicious diner they had. I'm jealous. *wink*
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
I think I preferred the dessert! Thanks for reading x
I LOVE this chapter!! ANd considering thess two sentences "I’ve never seen him look so bloody edible in my life, and my mouth goes dry.""I feel an urge to lick the exposed flesh"I'm wondering what, precisely, thay are going to eat for diner...
Response from neelix (Author of Making Happy)
Haha... With Severus in the house there's only one thing on the menu ;)
Thanks for reading :)